Topic: Garmin 2720 Review (Read 23092 times)

110tHunDer · « **on:** December 28, 2005, 11:22:24 PM »

I purchased a Garmin 2720 portable GPS unit about a week or so ago and thought I'd share some early impressions and neat features with the group. This may be a little long-winded, so sorry about that, but I was in the dark for a long time about the capabilities of these units and thought this information might be helpful to someone in a similar situation.

I have found this to be a very easy to use piece of equipment and just a lot of fun to have on the few short hops I've made around the area here, as well as to play with in the house. I like the "3-D" view that the 2720 has the capability of showing over the more conventional 2-D, although I think a more accurate term for it would be "bird's eye" view, since it is not really three dimensional being on a flat screen. Finding places is a snap, however, some restaurants and other points of interest (POIs) around here that I expected to find were not loaded on the software. The nice thing is, updates can be downloaded from Garmin's website as they become available. Buttons on the touch screen for key functions are a decent size, but entering addresses from the small-ish keypad while riding probably wouldn't be advisable. The 2720 also has the capability of loading custom POIs (red light cameras, for example) using web-based services, but I have found that not many of these databases currently exist for the US.

Programming the 2720 with pre-planned routes is made easy using the supplied MapSource software. MapSource is very similar to Microsoft Streets & Trips and allows you to create waypoints and routes on your PC and then upload them via a USB/Serial port connection for use on the road. You can also go the other way and download routes and waypoints you've created in the 2720 to MapSource for storage and/or manipulation later. Another neat download feature is the "track" tool which, when turned on on the 2720, will drop "bread crumbs" along your route every so often. You can then download the track to MapSource to create a record of where you've been.

I will cover these features in more detail in the following posts, but for starters, here is the owner's manual for the 2720 which will give you a good idea of the basic functions such as finding places, saving places you find, and creating routes as well as show you what some of the screens look like . . .

2720 Owner's Manual:
http://www.garmin.com/manuals/StreetPilot2720GPS_OwnersManual.pdf

And here is the user guide for the MapSource software, covering a great deal of its functionality . . .

MapSource User's Guide:
http://www.garmin.com/manuals/MapSource_MapSourceUsersGuide.pdf

110tHunDer · « **Reply #1 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:24:12 PM »

To create a route in MapSource for uploading to the 2720, first select Waypoints on the route.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #2 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:25:45 PM »

Once you've selected the waypoints, highlight, right mouse click and then choose, "Create Route using Selected Waypoint(s)."

110tHunDer · « **Reply #3 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:28:00 PM »

From "Route Properties," you can order the waypoints the way you want to navigate the route using the arrows on the left.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #4 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:28:49 PM »

And then tell it to show the selected route on the map.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #5 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:30:08 PM »

If you don't like the route it's calculated, you can add another waypoint to the map and then add it to your route . . .

110tHunDer · « **Reply #6 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:30:59 PM »

Then, recalculate the route to see if it chooses the path you want to take.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #7 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:32:11 PM »

Once you're happy with the route, you can connect the 2720 to your PC with the supplied USB cable, click the "Send To Device" icon, and the waypoints and the route will be saved to your 2720.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #8 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:32:43 PM »

110tHunDer · « **Reply #9 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:43:34 PM »

Then you'll be able to select the route to edit/review or navigate from the 2720. The sample route I downloaded from MapSource above is the third one down on this screen.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #10 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:46:20 PM »

Route as shown on the 2720 screen. The screen is much clearer in real life. I think the camera didn't like the low light level conditions I took the photos in.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #11 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:48:05 PM »

Here is an example of how the track feature works. Turn the track on from the "Tools" --> "My Data" --> "Track Log" menus.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #12 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:48:57 PM »

110tHunDer · « **Reply #13 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:50:47 PM »

Then go for a ride or drive with the track recording set to the "on" position. When you return, hook the 2720 back up to your PC and click the "Receive from Device" icon.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #14 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:51:48 PM »

Note you can recieve maps, waypoints, routes and tracks from teh 2720. In this example, I received tracks.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #15 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:52:52 PM »

When MapSource has received the tracks, you can highlight them, right click and tell it to display the tracks on the map like this . . .

110tHunDer · « **Reply #16 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:55:14 PM »

One last neat feature is the ability to simulate navigating a saved route. From the "Settings" --> "General" --> "GPS" menus, select Use Indoors.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #17 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:56:48 PM »

This turns the navigation off.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #18 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:58:03 PM »

Then choose the route you want to navigate. In this case, I chose "Wednesday Maggie Valley."

110tHunDer · « **Reply #19 on:** December 28, 2005, 11:59:17 PM »

Then it will ask if you want to simulate driving that route. It will only ask you this if you have turned the GPS "off" by selecting "Use Indoors" earlier.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #20 on:** December 29, 2005, 12:01:10 AM »

It will then begin navigating the route for you.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #21 on:** December 29, 2005, 12:04:02 AM »

The downside is, it basically does this in real time, probably using some default MPH based on the type of road you are on in the route, but the neat thing is you can hit the screen to put the map into 2-D mode and then navigate around the route to check any area you want to by sliding your finger across the map to move it and using the "plus" and "minus" keys to zoom in or out on any detail you want to see.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #22 on:** December 29, 2005, 12:05:00 AM »

All in all, I think this is a really nice unit and I'm anxious to use it on the bike come spring time!

spydglide · « **Reply #23 on:** December 29, 2005, 12:19:07 AM »

Great report on the 2720, Brian. So, the bottom line is: User friendly enough for a old fart to manipulate? [smiley=nixweiss.gif] spyder

110tHunDer · « **Reply #24 on:** December 29, 2005, 12:22:39 AM »

Thanks, Spyder! It's pretty intuitive, more so than I anticipated it to be, so I say, YES! By the time you get done messin' with that new digital camera and new PC, the 2720 will be a piece of cake! [smiley=xyxthumbs.gif]

Twolanerider · « **Reply #25 on:** December 29, 2005, 01:42:47 AM »

Brian, when we see each other again play with the 2620 a bit in comparison. The screen resolution on yours will be sharper. The ul/dl and logging functions are a real plus along with the ability to group waypoints the way the 2720 can. Oddly though you don't have some functions that the 2620 did have. Some tab editing and other handy functions.

Checking the two out comparatively it seems all the changes are things that would definitely be characterized as compromises to ease of use. It's just a shame they couldn't have kept all the other higher end manipulation functions in the new one as well. All tolled the 2720s gains are important. But there are losses. I've read a couple of really unhappy comparisons between CN6 as used in the 26XX and CN7 for the 27XX. Seems in side by side comparisons the CN6 "older" software actually has a larger POI database and a "smarter" routing algorithm. There's going to be pros and cons both ways. It's just a shame that the benefits of the new one couldn't come at the cost of losing some of the functionality of the prior model.

Does your have their 4.2 or 4.4 software loaded for the base unit? If not 4.4 the difference is probably worth the quick upload.

All kidding about upgrades aside, however, give it another year or so and we're all going to be behind the curve. About a month ago the USAF threw the first of the new generation II-R GPS satellites in to orbit on the nose of a Delta II rocket. 2R M1 was declared "healthy" just a day or two before Christmas and it is already being used for fixes. Three more II-Rs are scheduled for launch early in 06 as USAF continues to upgrade the system. Give the mass market a year or so to start marketing the L2C II-R capable receivers and we'll all be behind the curve again.

Of course they'll start out pricey and have to come down. But the resolution and some other details will be very very cool. I just hope that some capability of the new birds will be to "traffic cop" a lot of the overlap that has come to be with the advent of so many FAA satellites now flying with the USAF birds. WAAS is nice for correction, don't get me wrong, but when we're already finding eight, nine, ten or even eleven satellites on a regular basis for locks over much of the country anyway for highway navigation use we're really not hurting. Of course I'd say something different were I shooting a precision approach in bad weather in an aircraft. So... um... never mind

110tHunDer · « **Reply #26 on:** December 29, 2005, 07:29:02 AM »

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Does your have their 4.2 or 4.4 software loaded for the base unit?

110tHunDer · « **Reply #27 on:** December 29, 2005, 07:51:13 AM »

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All kidding about upgrades aside, however, give it another year or so and we're all going to be behind the curve . . .

That is exactly why I shyed (sp?) away from choosing the GPS option for the car I ordered and bought last year.

SEUC-OCD · « **Reply #28 on:** December 29, 2005, 09:38:20 AM »

For those who were curious about the difference between the 2720 and the 2730, the 2730 is the same unit with added XM Radio and map integrated XM Traffic/Weather. Also, the 2730 has an FM transmitter to transmit the XM and voice navigation. The cost difference is about $150 + $13/month for the XM subscription.

And thanks 103! That was an excellent presentation!

I have not played with the GPS yet because mine is back ordered until Jan/Feb.

Anyone notice a pattern with everything I get? It's never available, then it's on order, then it's delayed. Same thing with the house I am building. Is there some sort of message I am just not getting or just rotten luck?

110tHunDer · « **Reply #29 on:** December 29, 2005, 10:28:04 AM »

OCD, I've been second-guessing myself a bit over not getting the 2730. The only thing that stopped me at the time was I have a Sirius subscription for my car and I was having difficulty coming to terms with purchasing yet another satellite radio subscription, but maybe I was just being cheap. For those who want to add satellite radio capability to their bike, this is an easy way to do it! Just means you might be taking the GPS along at times when all you really want to do is listen to tunes, but what the hey! Traffic and weather would be nice as well, though the tunes would be the main selling point for me.

Glad you enjoyed the posts.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #30 on:** December 29, 2005, 10:31:43 AM »

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About a month ago the USAF threw the first of the new generation II-R GPS satellites in to orbit on the nose of a Delta II rocket.

16HD117 · « **Reply #31 on:** December 29, 2005, 10:43:25 AM »

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All in all, I think this is a really nice unit and I'm anxious to use it on the bike come spring time!

Hey Brian, why don't you FedX that thing to me and I'll do some testing for you!

Crawdaddy · « **Reply #32 on:** December 29, 2005, 11:03:15 AM »

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With all these high-tech satellites floating around, I wonder how long it will be before we are paying to use GPS, similar to satellite radio? [smiley=nixweiss.gif]

Whoaaaa! Don't give them any ideas. [smiley=nervous.gif]

110tHunDer · « **Reply #33 on:** December 29, 2005, 12:03:48 PM »

Does anyone know if screen overlays, such as these for a PDA, are available for the 26/27xx???

http://catalog.belkin.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Merchant_Id=&Section_Id=202571&pcount=&Product_Id=186404

Crawdaddy · « **Reply #34 on:** December 29, 2005, 12:08:18 PM »

103

I suppose you could get one large enough to cut out and make it work. However, I have had my 2620 unit for two years in the car and on the bike and have not had any damage to the screen. I don't use a stylus, only my fingers. Also, the sun might reflect differently. I just don't think it is necessary.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #35 on:** December 29, 2005, 12:35:45 PM »

Crawdaddy, thanks for the comments about the durability of the screen on the 2620. I've seen a lot of scratched up PDAs, so I use one of those on mine and thought it would be good to have for the GPS, too. But it sounds like, at least with fingers-only on the screen, it'll hold up well.

Twolanerider · « **Reply #36 on:** December 29, 2005, 02:33:10 PM »

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With all these high-tech satellites floating around, I wonder how long it will be before we are paying to use GPS, similar to satellite radio? [smiley=nixweiss.gif]

Brian, no real problem at all with current generation GPS sets.

CVOJOE · « **Reply #37 on:** December 29, 2005, 05:10:13 PM »

Great job Brian![smiley=xyxthumbs.gif] Now I don't have to read the manual

Twolanerider · « **Reply #38 on:** December 29, 2005, 05:35:31 PM »

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Great job Brian![smiley=xyxthumbs.gif] Now I don't have to read the manual

no-rain · « **Reply #39 on:** January 08, 2006, 03:41:19 PM »

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I purchased a Garmin 2720 portable GPS unit about a week or so ago...

103tHunDer,

I received my 2720 unit yesterday and I wanted to thank you for your review. It helped me a lot with my purchasing decision.

Regards,
No-Rain (aka Rainman)

110tHunDer · « **Reply #40 on:** January 08, 2006, 04:53:33 PM »

Good deal, No-Rain!

SEUC-OCD · « **Reply #41 on:** January 12, 2006, 06:36:22 PM »

Quote

I purchased a Garmin 2720 portable GPS unit about a week or so ago ...

103,

Did you get a mounting kit for it?

I believe 2Lane recommended this cradle for the 2620:
http://www.gpscity.com/item-garmin-streetpilot-26xx-motorcycle-cradle-and-cable/sp26cradlepow.htm
which requires a mounting bracket such as this:
http://www.gpscity.com/item-ram-mount-large-steel-rail-base-with-round-plate/ramb101-231l.htm

I am just not sure if it will fit the 2730.
Mine will be here Saturday!

CVOJOE · « **Reply #42 on:** January 12, 2006, 07:26:59 PM »

Here's another source for mounting solutions, and other accesories. Use one of their mounts for radar detector/GPS and decided to order another to be dedicated to GPS for longer trips. Some are pricey, but are literally bulletproof designs. Pic shows one with Valentine 1 radar detector, but GPS mount just bolts to the same plate. One recessed bolt secures it to the handlebar and Garmin already has a screw lock on the cradle.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #43 on:** January 12, 2006, 08:15:06 PM »

Quote

103,

Did you get a mounting kit for it?

I believe 2Lane recommended this cradle for the 2620:
http://www.gpscity.com/item-garmin-streetpilot-26xx-motorcycle-cradle-and-cable/sp26cradlepow.htm
which requires a mounting bracket such as this:
http://www.gpscity.com/item-ram-mount-large-steel-rail-base-with-round-plate/ramb101-231l.htm

I am just not sure if it will fit the 2730.
Mine will be here Saturday!

SEUC-OCD · « **Reply #44 on:** January 12, 2006, 10:16:37 PM »

Quote

...I will probably go with the Touratech/Cycoactive setup...

CVOJOE and 103, Thanks for the info!

16HD117 · « **Reply #45 on:** January 13, 2006, 03:11:26 PM »

Quote

CVOJOE and 103, Thanks for the info!

Tonys · « **Reply #46 on:** January 13, 2006, 08:28:56 PM »

Great review..what is the screen size? I must have missed it...also anybody found the best price?...thanks

110tHunDer · « **Reply #47 on:** January 13, 2006, 08:34:43 PM »

The screen size is 3

SEUC-OCD · « **Reply #48 on:** January 13, 2006, 10:43:51 PM »

Quote

Great review..what is the screen size? I must have missed it...also anybody found the best price?...thanks

I got my 2730 for $899 (free shipping) from www.gpscity.com.

The bracket and mount were about $150 from www.cycoactive.com.

SEUC-OCD · « **Reply #49 on:** January 15, 2006, 01:07:55 PM »

103,

I got my 2730 yesterday, but it did not come with the MapSource software.

Did you have to download it, or did you get it separately? I see that there is an unlock code, and that the MapSource software requires an unlock code, but I am not sure if it is related.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #50 on:** January 15, 2006, 01:21:57 PM »

OCD, with my 2720 there was a CD included that came in an evelope as shown below. The unlock code was printed on a yellow card and is needed to use the software.

SEUC-OCD · « **Reply #51 on:** January 15, 2006, 01:57:07 PM »

Quote

OCD, with my 2720 there was a CD included that came in an evelope as shown below.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #52 on:** January 15, 2006, 02:09:33 PM »

My box lists MapSource software as "optional accessories" as well, but above that has MapSource City Navagator North America NT v7 DVD (full unlock) listed under "package contains."

Could this be another difference between the 2720 and 2730?

110tHunDer · « **Reply #53 on:** January 15, 2006, 02:14:10 PM »

Bottom of 2720 box . . .

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #54 on:** April 10, 2006, 12:56:35 AM »

Ok....this GPS stuff is all very confusing...the 2730 Gamin is very nice...but, I don't really see any sense in having the XM function since my bike's radio (SE Ultra '06) will already have that, plus the mp3 functionality. I have already read about the 2720, and since it's a little cheaper, and seems to have all the true GPS functions one would want, it looks more attractive to me. I was also looking at the Lowrance 500ic (I think that's the number), and it looks a little bit more compact, with the same functionality, and it's a good bit cheaper. Any experience with their maps? I would really like one for the bike and get a good handheld for hiking, boating, etc. More toys!!! [smiley=banana.gif] [smiley=huepfenjump3.gif]

BacDoc · « **Reply #55 on:** May 10, 2006, 11:05:01 PM »

I am tied between buying the 2730 and the Quest 2. I will have the SE 2006 so i am leaning towards the Quest 2. Any suggestions?

VaEagle · « **Reply #56 on:** May 10, 2006, 11:34:14 PM »

Hi BacDoc,
Since you have a 2006 SE you may want to save some money and get the Garmin 2720. It is basically the 2730 without the XM radio function and a few other small things.
If you go to www.gpscity.com you can do a side by side comparison of the 2720 ,2730 and the Quest2.
I went with the 2720 myself and love it. It is a plug and play model that has all the maps already downloaded and you don't have to use memory cards. It also has extra memory so you can do things like download the database of all Harley dealer locations in the country too. I bought my 2720 from www.buydig.com and I just saw it last week for less than $700 including shipping.

BacDoc · « **Reply #57 on:** May 11, 2006, 09:53:57 PM »

I purchased the Quest 2 today. Is there a way to wire the gps to the 06 radio into the back rather than having to plug into the front aux jack?

110tHunDer · « **Reply #58 on:** May 18, 2006, 08:49:27 PM »

Just thought I'd post a few photos of my GPS install. Thanks to JCZ, Twolanerider, VaEagle and WFP for the help in various threads. I'm really pleased with the way it turned out! [smiley=xyxthumbs.gif]

Components used were:
Techmount Mini Chrome 1" Handlebar Mount - Part #30997MC
Techmount GPS/XM Radio Accessory Top - Part #60991
Garmin Streetpilot Motorcycle Cradel Kit w/ Bare Wire Cable
Radio Shack Cigarette Lighter Power Plug - Part #270-1509

This is the approximate view from the cockpit. Although it looks appears the air temp gauge is blocked in this photo, when you're on the bike, it is in clear view.

110tHunDer · « **Reply #59 on:** May 18, 2006, 08:50:09 PM »

The view from behind . . .

110tHunDer · « **Reply #60 on:** May 18, 2006, 08:50:38 PM »

From the right side . . .

110tHunDer · « **Reply #61 on:** May 18, 2006, 08:51:24 PM »

From the underside showing the routing of the cable to the cigarette lighter.

magicl1 · « **Reply #62 on:** June 23, 2006, 03:47:42 AM »

What is the diamater of the bars on the CUSE? Looking at these mounts and they come in 1", 1 1/8" and 1 1/4".
I believe I want the 1" style.

http://estore.websitepros.com/817592/Categories.bok?category=Harley+Davidson.

Thanks

110tHunDer · « **Reply #63 on:** June 23, 2006, 07:24:44 AM »

You're correct. Stock bars are 1".

bigdog257 · « **Reply #64 on:** June 25, 2006, 09:52:50 PM »

I like that chrome setup for mounting the gps Hunter. I have the 2620 on my ultra but ran the wire down the handle bar, on top of the tank and back to the fuse plugs. It works great and don't have the plug in at the lighter.
Thanks for the pictures. [smiley=xyxthumbs.gif]
Bigdog

The Mysterious Q! · « **Reply #65 on:** July 04, 2006, 11:15:00 AM »

I really like the Garmin units and have been reading up on them as of late.but with the style of bars and the lack of a fairing I think a PDA style or handheld unit would be a good choice.Any one have any suggestions? Want to have a unit hopefully by Maggie Valley. Thanks,Q

KickStand · « **Reply #66 on:** July 04, 2006, 02:09:35 PM »

Quote

I really like the Garmin units and have been reading up on them as of late.but with the style of bars and the lack of a fairing I think a PDA style or handheld unit would be a good choice.Any one have any suggestions? Want to have a unit hopefully by Maggie Valley. Thanks,Q

I have a 2720 mounted on my VRSCSE, with no problems and it looks good. It's wired to my helmet speakers too.
Great unit.
KickStand

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #67 on:** July 04, 2006, 06:10:16 PM »

BD...you may want to take a look at the Garmin 76SCX (or is it CSX?)....I have it, but also just bought the 2820...there's a use for both of them. Take a look at the install thread I did on mine and it will give you an idea of what the unit looks like...it's not as easy to find points on the fly, but loading routes works the same as the rest of them.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #68 on:** July 04, 2006, 06:12:24 PM »

Here's the link, BD

http://flhrsei.org/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.cgi?num=1149819430

SCRM-R · « **Reply #69 on:** July 04, 2006, 08:03:32 PM »

I just installed a Garmin 2720 on an '03 SERK...got it from www.pcnation.com for $697.90 with free 3- day shipping. That's the best price that I could find on a new unit. Used the two wire rubber "battery tender" type plugs to install a temporarily mounted cigarette lighter...used the techmount chrome mount to install the GPS to the handlebars...plug in the speaker to the cigarette ligther and go. Works great. Bought the hardwire hookup from Garmin in case of rain and I can't use the speaker setup. I can set it up or take it all off in less than 10 minutes. It's all off right now, but I've got the routes planned and programmed for a Labor Day trip to the North Georgia Mountains. Can't wait!

magicl1 · « **Reply #70 on:** July 05, 2006, 03:00:50 PM »

Quote

Components used were:
Techmount Mini Chrome 1" Handlebar Mount - Part #30997MC
Techmount GPS/XM Radio Accessory Top - Part #60991
Garmin Streetpilot Motorcycle Cradel Kit w/ Bare Wire Cable

I liked the mounting options for the parts you listed, but having some difficulty figuring out how to assemble all.
The Tech Mount Mini Chrome has one hole in the center for mounting the Tech Mount Accessory Top which has the 3 holes in the center (2 small and one large).

110tHunDer · « **Reply #71 on:** July 05, 2006, 03:19:36 PM »

magicl1, I ended up not using the Mini Chrome baseplate due to the issues with the incorrect hole pattern that you're talking about. I used locktite to mount the isolation top plate to the single hole in the middle of the Tech Mount using one of the bevel head screws that came with the Mini Chrome baseplate.

The isolation mount I got came with both long and short screws. The long screws worked fine with the Garmin mount, but I did have to crush it together a bit on on end (can't remember which now) to get them started.

Hope that helps and I'll post some more photos after awhile which may be of additional benefit.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #72 on:** July 05, 2006, 04:38:47 PM »

Magic...I got the mount you speak of, along with the cradle from Garmin, and just mounted the cradle directly to the chrome mounting plate that came with my Techmount. The four rubber isolating bushings...and the package of nuts/bolts they gave me with the mounting kit (they also included a black anodized plate, which I do not need/use)...I put the four bushings in from the top of the plate, and four of the holes line up perfectly with the locking mount from Garmin. When you put the screws in and tighten them down, it pulls the bushings up and swells them up on the backside of the mounting plate...it's as solid as a rock. I will be happy to take a photo tonight and post if you would like. Rode 1100 miles with it like this and still solid as a rock. Perhaps you did not get the "new" Chrome plate? The hole patterns on it match standard AMP patterns as well as the Garmin mount 4 bolt hole pattern. [smiley=confused5.gif]

magicl1 · « **Reply #73 on:** July 05, 2006, 05:30:11 PM »

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magicl1, I ended up not using the Mini Chrome baseplate due to the issues with the incorrect hole pattern that you're talking about.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #74 on:** July 05, 2006, 05:39:27 PM »

Maybe they included different sets of screws with mine, but they don't stick out....like 103 said, one set was too long, the other too short, but one set was juuuuuust right. I got so damn many screws though, I can't be certain where they came from, as I had a ram cradle for my other GPS, which came with screws, the screws that came with the Garmin cradle for the 2820, and then those from Techmount...pretty sure they were the one's from Techmount though.

spydglide · « **Reply #75 on:** July 05, 2006, 06:18:52 PM »

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Maybe they included different sets of screws with mine, but they don't stick out....like 103 said, one set was too long, the other too short, but one set was juuuuuust right.

magicl1 · « **Reply #76 on:** July 05, 2006, 06:27:09 PM »

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Magic...I got the mount you speak of, along with the cradle from Garmin, [highlight]and just mounted the cradle directly to the chrome mounting plate that came with my Techmount.[/highlight]

110tHunDer · « **Reply #77 on:** July 05, 2006, 07:05:27 PM »

Here are a few more pics without the GPS in the mount so you can see the bracketry.

Note, using just the isolation mount, not the chrome jobbie that came with the Tech Mount:

110tHunDer · « **Reply #78 on:** July 05, 2006, 07:06:58 PM »

Four countersunk screws either from the isolation mount kit or the Garmin kit (can't remember which one now), holding the Garmin mount to the isolation mount:

110tHunDer · « **Reply #79 on:** July 05, 2006, 07:08:14 PM »

Bottom screws were the ones that were difficult to get started, but you can see about one thread sticking through on the bottom (compared to about 3 or 4 on top):

110tHunDer · « **Reply #80 on:** July 05, 2006, 07:10:41 PM »

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I would still like to use the Chrome base plate as it allows you to off set if necessary and it has the small protrusion to prevent twisting the plate once it is locked down.

I hear what you're saying on that, but I've had mine on the bike for, I dunno, 1,500 miles or so and with the locktite holding it on, there has been no movement whatsoever. The main thing is making sure the screw stays in there. If the screw comes loose, that little nipple that fits into the receiving part isn't gonna do squat, anyway.

magicl1 · « **Reply #81 on:** July 05, 2006, 08:40:29 PM »

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I hear what you're saying on that, but I've had mine on the bike for, I dunno, 1,500 miles or so and with the locktite holding it on, there has been no movement whatsoever.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #82 on:** July 05, 2006, 10:45:23 PM »

They have it Magic...they had just gotten them in when I ordered mine a few weeks ago...I've taken pics..let me download and re-size. I spoke with D when i phoned in the order...pics coming.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #83 on:** July 05, 2006, 10:46:58 PM »

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Well TC, you gotta figure a method of keeping up w/ where your screws come from.

spydglide · « **Reply #84 on:** July 05, 2006, 10:55:44 PM »

Oh yeah, TC......I can relate! har! [smiley=huepfenlol2.gif] spyder

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #85 on:** July 05, 2006, 11:01:45 PM »

magic...here's the photos...you can see that the mount is screwed directly on the chrome plate...the holes lined up perfectly, and I used the rubber do-hicky's they shipped with the mount, and I think some of the screws they included with it as well. Let me know if you need additional information, and i'll hunt down a part number, if I can find it on my workbench

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #86 on:** July 05, 2006, 11:02:18 PM »

another

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #87 on:** July 05, 2006, 11:02:58 PM »

from the cradle side

110tHunDer · « **Reply #88 on:** July 05, 2006, 11:19:33 PM »

That looks good, TC. Probably the better route to go versus what I did, but the chrome plate wasn't available that I saw when I ordered mine. Magicl1, if you determine a way to get the chrome mount separately, let me know.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #89 on:** July 06, 2006, 08:15:17 AM »

OK...found my invoice buried on my workbench...I've been doing so many "little things" to the bikes, the bench is getting out of control.

The part number they shipped to me is 30997MC, the description reads: Handlebar mount 1 inch mini chrome with amps plate chrome.

AMPs is an industry standard mounting hole pattern. I don't know if they would sell/exchange the plate for you. When I talked to D, I was specifically asking her about the AMPs mounting pattern....in trying to meet/determine my needs, which was a few phone conversations over a couple of days, the new plate arrived in a shipment they had just received from their supplier. Guess I just lucked out. The cost was $74.95 plus shipping.

Hope this helps!!

magicl1 · « **Reply #90 on:** July 06, 2006, 08:53:08 AM »

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OK...found my invoice buried on my workbench...I've been doing so many "little things" to the bikes, the bench is getting out of control.

The part number they shipped to me is 30997MC, the description reads: Handlebar mount 1 inch mini chrome with amps plate chrome.

AMPs is an industry standard mounting hole pattern.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #91 on:** July 06, 2006, 12:14:54 PM »

magic...keep in mind that the plate I got has multiple holes in it...I think two of them line up for the AMP's pattern, which is standard for the RAM type cradles, and four of them line up for the Garmin mount shown...there's a couple of more holes in there for good measure, I guess

If you talk to D (female), or I think the other person is Michael (not sure about that one) maybe they can look up my order to see what it is they sent me. It's Terry Crain

They also sent a black plate too, with some addtional hole patterns...it appears they are different...I'm sure it fits something out there, but heaven knows what. A lot of people use these things for video cameras, laptops, etc, so there's a hole pattern for everything, though AMP is supposed to be the "standard" from my reading material.

Let me know how it turns out...my curiousity is up now, and I'm sure 103 would be interested in knowing if the plate is available as a seperate puchase, because its OCD CHROME

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #92 on:** July 06, 2006, 12:29:10 PM »

You know, I just had to laugh while ago...where else in the world could you find a bunch of Anal Retentive, Obsessive Compulsive Scoot owners, who take friggin' pictures of little chrome brackets, rubber thing-a-ma-bobs,have in depth disussions on screws, bolt patterns...all manner of things.

It's sick, but I sure do love it

[smiley=huepfenjump3.gif]

You just gotta' laugh....What a great site!!!

magicl1 · « **Reply #93 on:** July 06, 2006, 01:14:56 PM »

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magic...keep in mind that the plate I got has multiple holes in it...I think two of them line up for the AMP's pattern, which is standard for the RAM type cradles, and four of them line up for the Garmin mount shown...there's a couple of more holes in there for good measure, I guess

harleydiva · « **Reply #94 on:** July 07, 2006, 10:40:56 PM »

Y'all are just sick (OCD) ... but it sure makes for fun reading!

[smiley=huepfenjump3.gif]

My OCD consists of Harley clothes shopping! [smiley=xyxthumbs.gif] [smiley=banana.gif]

magicl1 · « **Reply #95 on:** July 12, 2006, 11:40:35 PM »

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You know, I just had to laugh while ago...where else in the world could you find a bunch of Anal Retentive, Obsessive Compulsive Scoot owners, who take friggin' pictures of little chrome brackets, rubber thing-a-ma-bobs,have in depth disussions on screws, bolt patterns...all manner of things.

It's sick, but I sure do love it

110tHunDer · « **Reply #96 on:** July 12, 2006, 11:54:46 PM »

Glad to hear you got it sorted out to your satisfaction, magic!

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #97 on:** July 13, 2006, 01:03:09 AM »

Good to hear you got it the way you want it...I'm going to do the remainder of my hook up this week or next...just got all the cords needed.

magicl1 · « **Reply #98 on:** July 13, 2006, 03:20:09 AM »

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Good to hear you got it the way you want it...I'm going to do the remainder of my hook up this week or next...[highlight]just got all the cords needed[/highlight].

Did you order the "post 7-1 option" for your cord(s)? Heck, I ordered my parts on the 26th and then saw the updated comments on the other thread about the new cord option.
How did you end up connecting to 12 VDC? I would prefer connecting to the switched Accessory outlet but that means running the wire down under the tank beneath the seat to the plug. Probably easier than it sounds.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #99 on:** July 13, 2006, 09:02:52 AM »

I have been told there are two wires taped to the headlight assembly that are from the ignition switch....I plan on using those, if I make it permanent wiring. And no, I didn't get the "new" wires from the post...got the other, right angled ones. I tested mine before ordering those with one I picked up (straight connectors) at a local musicians shop, and it seemed to work just fine through the AUX input. I'm going to run the right angled ones through the handlebar holes in the fairing, put a chrome wire tie near the holes on each side, and when not in use just push the wire back into the holes so just right angled part is barely sticking out of the fairing. You will barely be able to see it, I think. While I've got the fairing off, I plan on moving the XM antenae on top of the radio platform to see if that makes for better reception, as suggested.

WFP · « **Reply #100 on:** July 13, 2006, 09:15:52 AM »

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I have been told there are two wires taped to the headlight assembly that are from the ignition switch....I plan on using those, if I make it permanent wiring.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #101 on:** July 13, 2006, 09:22:29 AM »

Yeah, the cig lighter is the same way...your idea is a good one, but I'm not astute enough to figure that one out. What have you got in mind, and what parts/wiring would be necessary?

WFP · « **Reply #102 on:** July 13, 2006, 09:40:26 AM »

I am looking at relay timers right now...the idea is that you will need direct battery power going into the relay. Then you will need the switched power going into the relay. Lastly, the relay output goes to the GPS.

When the switched voltage drops to zero, the timer starts counting and when it reaches the arbitrary 5 or 10 minute mark, it cuts off the circuit between the battery and the GPS.

/Bill

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Yeah, the cig lighter is the same way...your idea is a good one, but I'm not astute enough to figure that one out.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #103 on:** July 13, 2006, 10:57:23 AM »

WFP....I'm rusty in my thinking about that kind of stuff...used to do controls in Energy Management, but it's been 10 years, and it was on commercial HVAC systems....thanks for the idear

, as that would make life much more simple for the GPS, regardless of the place one decided to hook up the power for the unit. Please keep me posted as to the solution you come up with, if you don't mind. [smiley=xyxthumbs.gif]

magicl1 · « **Reply #104 on:** July 13, 2006, 01:36:49 PM »

That's what makes this site so great.

magicl1 · « **Reply #105 on:** July 13, 2006, 02:14:36 PM »

This is a picture of the original (larger) plate and the Slip Cover.

magicl1 · « **Reply #106 on:** July 13, 2006, 02:22:32 PM »

This is the mounting bracket with the smaller CHROME plate with the Garmin Cradle attached using he rubber isolation mounting nuts.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #107 on:** July 13, 2006, 03:25:31 PM »

Good deal, Magic...I never got the wing nut thingy...whatsatfor?

magicl1 · « **Reply #108 on:** July 13, 2006, 03:43:57 PM »

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Good deal, Magic...I never got the wing nut thingy...whatsatfor?

Until you have that Slip Cover option in your hand, it is difficult to envision how it works. The cover has more holes in than Swiss Cheese and is intended to adapt to about anything you can put on it. There are 4 holes to attach your Garmin Cradle in the same way that you would to the Smaller Chrome or Black plate. The cover is made from a hard machineable Plastic Material. This slips over the larger Chrome plate. From under the chrome plate you pass the "wing screw" through the hole and into the plastic (threaded hole) on the slip cover.
It is a nice set up but as I mentioned, unless you have a quick disconnect on your power cord, you would need to remove the GPS from the Garmin Cradle to disconnect your cord. The Wing Screw is not the most secure but anyone with allen wrenches can can remove the complete unit in a few seconds.

While on this subject, in one of the earlier pictures it shows a plastic cover over the GPS when not in use. Is this model specific or an after market option? I have the 2610 and it did not come with that cover.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #109 on:** July 13, 2006, 06:18:17 PM »

Mine came with it...it's the same cover the 2700 series uses, and probably the 26XX as well.

Thanks for the explanation about the wingnut...a quick connect thing like that could be handy if one were using a radar detector, or even a camera of some kind.

WFP · « **Reply #110 on:** July 14, 2006, 09:19:14 AM »

Found a possible delay circuit...

http://www.elkproducts.com/products/elk-960.htm

/Bill

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WFP....I'm rusty in my thinking about that kind of stuff...used to do controls in Energy Management, but it's been 10 years, and it was on commercial HVAC systems....thanks for the idear

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #111 on:** July 14, 2006, 12:20:37 PM »

Bill...that would definately work. I'm looking on my end as well.

magicl1 · « **Reply #112 on:** July 14, 2006, 02:32:04 PM »

Who will be volunteering for the vibration testing? Let's see, a 10,000 mile road trip ought to do it!

Author Topic: Garmin 2720 Review (Read 23092 times)

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